Child Custody

A custody proceeding includes court actions in which a custody determination is one of several issues, such as an action for divorce or legal separation, and includes proceedings involving children who are in need of protection, domestic abuse and paternity.

"Legal custody" means the right to determine the child's upbringing, including education, health care and religious training.

"Joint legal custody" means that both parents have equal rights and responsibilities, including the right to participate in major decisions determining the child's upbringing, including education, health care and religious training.

"Physical custody and residence" means the routine daily care and control and where the child lives.

"Joint physical custody" means that the routine daily care and control and the residence of the child is structured between the parties.

Forms are available to bring motions to establish or change custody of children at the Family Court counter on the 1st floor of the Family Justice Center.

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